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Corvallis is a wonderful city to visit for numerous reasons. As both the county seat of Benton County and home of Oregon State University, the town certainly has the cultural enthusiast covered. Add in a visit to nearby Albany, and the historical buff can also find plenty to do. As for sightseeing and recreation, Corvallis Oregon calls the beautiful Willamette Valley home, and serving as a backdrop on the eastern side are the high-rising mountains of the Cascade Range. To the west, the Coast Range rises up, and on the other side of this range is the Pacific Ocean.

Corvallis OR is both a "Bike-Friendly City" and a "Tree City USA" qualifier. The bike-friendly designation relates to the fact that the city offers numerous bike trails and paths, some of which cater to mountain biking enthusiasts. As for the Tree City USA distinction, it is awarded to various cities by the National Arbor Day Foundation. These cities essentially pay increased attention to forestry and are known for their abundance of trees and park areas. There are actually more than 40 public parks in the immediate Corvallis area, and they offer everything from walking paths and picnic areas to ball fields and swimming holes.

No visit to Corvallis Oregon would be complete without spending some time in its tree-filled downtown district. Walking tours can be especially rewarding, and when you get the urge to check out some attractions, you might move the Benton County Courthouse to the top of your list. This historic hall of justice has stood proudly at 120 NW Fourth Street for more than 100 years and is still in operation. Guided tours can be arranged, though you will have to make an appointment in advance. After checking out the Benton County Courthouse, wandering over to the Corvallis Arts Center is encouraged. Found close by at 700 SW Madison Ave, this museum is housed in an old church and features changing exhibits that highlight the works of regional artists.

One of the best parks to visit in Corvallis Oregon is Riverfront Commemorative Park. Located in the downtown district, this park along the Willamette River offers ample lawns for relaxing, numerous walkways, and decks that provide excellent river views. That's not all, however. You will also find sculptures, a beautiful fountain, plazas, and bike paths in Riverfront Commemorative Park, and during the spring, summer, and fall seasons, it plays host to the Corvallis Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. This market can be wonderful to explore, even if you aren't planning on buying everything. Much of the produce comes from the farms that can be found in the Corvallis area, and there is quite a variety grown nearby.

All kinds of fun tours can be enjoyed in and around Corvallis Oregon. These include walking tours that focus on the history of the city, country tours that combine area attractions and destinations, and wine tours. It should be noted that the Oregon Wine Country unfolds near Corvallis proper, and as wine enthusiasts already know, this area churns out some of the best wine in the entire world.

If you head south of Corvallis on 99W, you will soon reach the William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is an especially good place to do some bird watching, so don't forget to bring the binoculars along. If you aren't an avid birder, the refuge can still be a great place to explore. There are easy to manage hiking trails, for example. Should a more strenuous hike be what you're after during a Corvallis OR escape, Mary's Peak has you covered. Found about fifteen miles west of town on Oregon 34, this 4,097-foot mount isn't the most strenuous thing to climb, though it should give you a good workout. The views from the top are delightful, and if you don't want to hike up, there is a road that reaches the summit.

Visiting the Benton County Historical Society and Museum is just one more option for things to do while visiting Corvallis Oregon, and in nearby Albany, there are hundreds of historic homes to take in. This town some thirteen miles to the northeast is actually regarded as being the best-preserved historic town in all of Oregon. Other side trip options include the Oregon capital of Salem, which is only some 40 miles to the north, and Eugene, which lies about 45 miles to the south.

As for where to stay during your visit to the inviting city of Corvallis, there are chain brand hotels and motels to select from, as well as charming bed and breakfasts.